As skincare becomes increasingly popular among the youth, a dermatologist at Södra Älvsborgs Hospital warns of potential long-term skin problems. The influence of social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram is driving young people to use advanced skincare products, often unsuitable for their sensitive skin, leading to issues such as contact eczema and allergies.
Dermatologist Warns Youth: Trendy Skincare Could Lead to Long-Term Issues
Dermatologist Warns Youth: Trendy Skincare Could Lead to Long-Term Issues
As skincare becomes increasingly trendy among young people, children risk developing long-term skin problems.
"Young people today use much more makeup and advanced skincare, and we meet many young patients who have developed issues," says Shivan Dilshad, a resident doctor in dermatology and venereology at Södra Älvsborgs Hospital.
At Södra Älvsborgs Hospital, the trendiness of skincare among children is evident. Shivan Dilshad encounters several young patients whose skincare routines have led to problems.
"We've noticed an increase, even though there are no significant statistics on it. Nowadays, they start using skincare products at a very young age. We often see overuse and misuse of creams and other skincare products, which are actually intended for adults," says Shivan Dilshad about the young patients.
Facial water, toner, serum, primer, day cream, and foundation are products many children use daily. But Shivan Dilshad also notes the increasing use of more advanced skincare, such as various acids and retinol.
"Children's skin is generally more sensitive and thinner than adults', and starting with strong products too early risks causing contact eczema and allergies. It can damage the skin barrier, leading to reactive skin that becomes difficult to treat in the future," says Dilshad.
TikTok Behind the Phenomenon
Makeup can also cause problems, says Dilshad.
"Children start using makeup very early, and it risks disrupting the skin's natural balance. It clogs pores and can cause cosmetically induced acne," he says.
He believes the significant interest among children and young people comes from social media.
"We see that it's because of TikTok and Instagram; they see older people using a lot of products and don't realize they're not suitable for their own skin."
For those who want to use makeup, Dilshad recommends not sleeping with makeup on, washing the face every evening, and not applying makeup over acne. Additionally, he suggests allowing the skin to recover by taking breaks from makeup occasionally.
In general, sunscreen, moisturizing cream, and mild cleansing are sufficient.
"Listen to your skin; if you experience redness or a reaction, stop using the products."